Chromatic is back in stock, permanently, and it has some new upgrades. The Chromatic is a Game Boy-inspired handheld that supports the classic cartridges but adds a new twist thanks to ModRetro.
You might recognize the Chromatic from ModRetro because we’ve shared it here before. It’s a retro-inspired Gameboy-like that has a lot of cool features, for example, a sunlight-friendly screen, or compatibility with new and old game cartridges. Well, one bummer that stood out was that it was only temporarily available and the stock was hard to come by in some places. That’s no longer the case. But while ModRetro’s Chromatic is now permanently in stock — yay — it has also gotten some more cool upgrades to make it even better.
Upgrades include a new colorway, called “Cloud,” five new game cartridges to choose from, new accessories, and some new features. For instance, it supports native streaming to Discord, Mac, and PC, and no extra hardware is needed to make that happen. Yes, you can stream right from the device. Badass, right? ModRetro has also started offering Gorilla ($200) and Sapphire ($300) glass displays to improve the durability of the handheld. Think, glass screens that are ultra vibrant but won’t crack or break under pressure.
But wait, there’s more!
What else has ModRetro done with the Chromatic?
Besides the native streaming support, which is cool enough, ModRetro has also introduced a firmware tool called Cart Clinic. Basically, the tool allows ModRetro cartridges — the new games — the option to receive updates and new content without having to replace the physical cartridge. In other words, they work like digital games in a way.
New accessories for the handheld include a rechargeable snap-in battery that adds up to 16 hours of playtime — Rechargeable Power Core — a link cable for co-op connections, a mod kit to swap parts and components, and the ModRetro Koss Porta Pro ($50) a color-matched retro headset for immersive audio.
But if you’re like me, you noticed the quick mention above about five new games. We’re getting a re-release of Sabrina: The Animated Series, Wicked Plague, a side-scrolling Metroidvania, Self-Simulated, a high-speed precision platformer, First Contact Protocol, an adventure-puzzle game, and Gravitorque, a puzzle platformer where you control gravity. If you remember, the Chromatic plays standard cartridges, too, so you can play both old-school and new releases.
I was already in love with this thing, but now I’m over the cartridge. Get it? I said over the “cartridge,” instead of “over the moon?” Okay, now I ruined it because I explained it and it was such a good one, too.
Who is it for?
Gamers of all ages, but mostly those pining for a nostalgic, handheld feel like the glory days where times were much simpler. You can also make new memories with the ModRetro originals. They’re really, really good.
Where to buy?
MSRP: $199 (Chromatic), $30 to $45 (Games/Cartridges)
